John Joseph Darmody Jr.

John Joseph Darmody Jr. 80, fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, peacefully passed away, Thursday, August 29, 2024. Devoted son of the late John Joseph Darmody Sr. and Agnes Marie Darmody nee Furtak; dedicated husband of Fortunata “Dolly” Grana Darmody; beloved dad of Patrick (Pamela) Darmody, Joseph (Julia) Darmody, Daniel (Helen) Darmody, Michael (Melany) Darmody and Julianne (Justin) Mann; cherished grandfather of Lauren (Ben), Allison (Tyler), Alexandria, Andrew, Sarah, Cora, Tyler, Amanda, Rachel, Thomas, Peter, Olivia, Nathaniel, Matthew, Gabriel, Agnes, Joshua, John; dear brother of Joseph (Joan) Darmody; with many loved brothers and sisters in law (known in some circles as "The Outlaws"), nieces, nephews, cousins relatives and friends. 

A Navy veteran, John served his country with honor by spending four years in the reserves and 2 years during the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1967 on active duty, totaling six years of dedicated service. He served aboard the USS Forrestal (CVA 59) in the Gulf of Tonkin. He never forgot the July 29 fire, or the men lost that day. Remaining, a proud and patriotic veteran throughout his life as a member of the VFW. 

John was also a dedicated member of the IBEW Local #1 Union for 59 years, working as a construction Electrician for more than 30 years and then as a Retired Member.

John was a devoted husband to Dolly for 56 wonderful years. His love for life and his family was evident in everything he did. John was known for his storytelling, often sharing long-winded tales that would delight and entertain those around him.

John was a true enthusiast of the great outdoors, finding immense joy in activities like hunting, fishing, and camping. His love for nature was complemented by his regular swims at the YMCA, where he found both relaxation and camaraderie. Beyond these pursuits, John had a passion for racquetball, and Tai Chi (as opposite as they are). He was a proud member of the Piscatorial Club, Indian Guides, and the VFW. His leadership shone through at St John the Baptist Catholic Church, as a leader in Boy Scout Troop #295, as an adult altar server and Hardly Able Crew member. 

To honor John, we will be holding an evening visitation on Wednesday, September 4 from 4pm-8pm at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons City Chapel and a morning visitation at the funeral home beginning at 10am on Thursday, September 5. This will be followed by a funeral mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church at 11:30am and interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 1pm.

John’s legacy of love, dedication, and service will be cherished by all who knew him. To further honor his legacy, the family suggests spending time outdoors, going off on tangents, eating a bowl of oatmeal with fresh blueberries, and having a Bomb Pop now and then! He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.